The buff brick and Ionic columnade of this four-story building are as impressive
as the programs they house, which are dedicated to better living in North Carolina.
The building has a total area of 51,143 square feet and is named after Robert
Henry Ricks (1839-1920).

Ricks was a trustee of NC State for many years and provided funds for the history
of the Civil War to be written by D. H. Hill. His interest in NC State was further
demonstrated by his service in the 1903 legislature, which provided appropriations
for much of the early development of the University. Ricks was also interested
in the research and development of farm crops and methods, especially the cultivation
of bright-leaf tobacco. He became successful in business in Rocky Mount, serving
as director and later as president of the Rocky Mount Cotton Mills, and as a
director of other mills.